Vulnerability and robustness of interdependent transport networks in north-western Italy

Abstract

Infrastructure networks have become increasingly complex, whose progressively higher levels of interdependence make them even more vulnerable. This empirical analysis based on the Morandi bridge collapse examines the robustness and vulnerability of the motorway and railway networks in north-western Italy. By following a network topology-based approach, motorways and railways are studied as one single interconnected multi-layer transport infrastructure. Based on the concepts of geographic and functional interdependence the study provides insight into which nodes (and links) should be restored as quickly as possible when an emergency and destructive event renders them inaccessible. Moreover, it highlights the greater fragility of the intermodal network which opens up the debate on regulation and coordination of restoring measures carried out by the relevant authorities.